By PHILOMINA ATTAH

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called for a thorough, professional and transparent investigation into the crash involving a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft near Igbokoda, Ondo State.

CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, made the call in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.

Okoh, who mourned victims of the crash, said the association welcomed the decision to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incidence.

He urged that the investigation be “thorough, professional and transparent’’, adding that the findings and safety recommendations should receive necessary attention.

“Every life lost is precious. We must therefore continue to strengthen aviation safety, aircraft maintenance, operational procedures and emergency response systems.

“Doing so will serve the interest of personnel who undertake difficult assignments on behalf of the nation,” he said.

The CAN president, on behalf of the Christian community in Nigeria, extended condolences to the families of the deceased personnel, the Nigerian Air Force, the Armed Forces and the people and Government of Ondo State.

He said the men and women of the Armed Forces make enormous sacrifices in service to the nation, noting that their families also bear the weight of those sacrifices.

Okoh called on Nigerians to remember the affected families and the Nigerian Air Force in their prayers and prayed God to grant eternal rest to the departed and comfort to the bereaved. (NAN)